Nigeria Customs Service Launches B’Odogwu Unified Management System To Enhance Trade Efficiency
Nigeria Customs Service Launches B’Odogwu Unified Management System To Enhance Trade Efficiency
By Frank Odinukaeze
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled B’Odogwu, a new Unified Customs Management System, in a pilot phase at the Port & Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML) in Lagos. This innovative platform marks a significant step in the NCS’s modernization efforts, aligning with global best practices.
Speaking at the launch event, Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Adewale Adeniyi highlighted the system’s potential to revolutionize customs operations. “B’Odogwu embodies our vision for a paperless customs administration that facilitates seamless trade while maintaining robust security measures,” he stated.
B’Odogwu is set to replace the existing Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II) as the NCS Legacy System. The new system is designed with future integration in mind, particularly with the upcoming National Single Window, which will further streamline trade processes when implemented by the Federal Government.
The initiative is backed by the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, specifically sections 28 and 29, which empower the NCS to develop and maintain electronic systems, ensuring transparency and stakeholder consultation. CGC Adeniyi urged stakeholders to embrace the change and provide constructive feedback to refine and improve the system.
“B’Odogwu will enhance our ability to streamline end-to-end business processes, provide stakeholders with customized integration capabilities, support more efficient and intelligent business decisions, and facilitate ease of doing business,” Adeniyi added.
The Comptroller General expressed gratitude to terminal operators, customs officers, licensed customs agents, and the Trade Modernisation Project team for their support and commitment. He emphasized the importance of training for PTML command officers, who will pioneer the implementation of B’Odogwu across other commands.
The development of B’Odogwu is a collaborative effort between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Trade Modernisation Project team, aiming to set a new standard in customs management and trade facilitation in Nigeria.